Commanders wide receivers
We all know how good Terry McLaurin is. He proved any doubters wrong in 2024. However, the wideout has not had a competent WR2 since becoming the alpha receiver for the Washington Commanders. That needs to change in 2025.
Having another receiver to take some of the defense's attention off McLaurin will allow him to get more one-on-one opportunities and provide Jayden Daniels with another dependable piece in the passing game. The offense as a whole would flourish with another big weapon.
Luckily for the front office, the Commanders have the third most cap space in the league. That leaves plenty of money to go out and get one of the big-name wide receiver free agents. At the top of that list is Tee Higgins, who would be the perfect target.
Chris Godwin, who was turning 2024 into a career year before going down with a season-ending injury, could also be a huge pick-up for the offense. Veterans like Keenan Allen and Amari Cooper would not be the flashiest signings, but competent options.
With how good this wide receiver class is, the Commanders will not only have several options with their first-round pick but also on Day 2. Prospects like Luther Burden III, Emeka Egbuka, and Matthew Golden could be there at No. 29 overall. Jayden Higgins, Elic Ayomanor, Tai Felton, and Jalen Royals could fall right into Washington's lap further down the pecking order.
Commanders cornerbacks
When Marshon Lattimore got traded to the Commanders, fans believed it would completely change the secondary. Injuries held the four-time Pro Bowler back.
There is optimism that Lattimore will be back to himself in 2025. But the front office should definitely be having conversations about how to improve the cornerback room.
Mike Sainristil shined as a rookie — he will be a very good boundary cornerback for years to come. That is the Commanders' biggest building block. He has proved that he can go toe-to-toe with elite wide receivers.
Even if Lattimore does find form again, the defense still needs a competent nickel. Noah Igbinoghene likely did not earn himself a new contract despite flashing promise.
If the front office decides to dish out money to a cornerback in free agency, players like D.J. Reed, Byron Murphy, and Asante Samuel Jr. will be available. This could end up sliding Sainristil back to the nickel.
Cornerback prospects like Trey Amos, Darien Porter, and Azareye'h Thomas would also be available for the Commanders on Day 2 of the draft.